HUNDREDS OF KENYAN STUDENT ATHLETES PARTICIPATE IN PENCAK SILAT TOURNAMENT 

The first Pencak Silat Ambassador’s Cup tournament, took place at Wood creek School in Kiambu. The event was a collaboration between the Indonesian Embassy in Nairobi and the National Federation of Pencak Silat Kenya (NFPSK), and was attended by hundreds of Kenyan student athletes.

248 participants from various Kenyan schools participated in the prestigious event. The tournament brought together several classes, from children to adults, men’s and women’s categories, skill demonstrations, and sparring one-on-one.

Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya, Dr. Mohamad Hery Saripudin, in his speech explained that the event was part of a series of celebrations for 45 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Kenya. “The tournament will not only fosters cultural exchange between Indonesia and Kenya, but also acts as a cultural bridge in increasing mutual understanding and people-to-people contact and relationships between the two countries,” said the Ambassador.

Adding,“This is the first event to be held, and the Kenyan people responded very positively. Hopefully the activity can continue every year.”

The Director of Asia and the Pacific, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Kenyan Diaspora, who was present as Guest of Honor, said, “It’s very good to learn about the culture of other countries. The close relationship between the two countries (Indonesia-Kenya) will be a strong foundation for increasing bilateral cooperation, in the political, social and economic fields,” he said.

Cleopas Chalica as President of NFPSK in his speech expressed his gratitude for the support of the Indonesian Embassy in Nairobi, as well as appreciation to the participants and coaches who came from various parts of Kenya to make the event a success.

Pencak Silat is a martial art that is rich in history it has beautiful movements, deep philosophy, and also involves artistic and aesthetic elements, making it interesting for observers and athletes.